Motorcycle learner's permit

Explanation

A motorcycle learner’s permit lets an Indiana resident practice riding before applying for a motorcycle endorsement. To get one, you must already hold a valid Indiana driver’s license and pass a knowledge exam based on the Motorcycle Operator’s Manual.

While riding on the permit, a helmet is required, and you may only ride without a passenger during the half hour before sunrise through the half hour after sunset — meaning after-dark riding on the permit alone is effectively restricted to that narrow daylight-adjacent window.

The permit is valid for one year and can be issued or renewed no more than three times within a five-year period. If you let a renewed permit expire without earning the motorcycle endorsement, you must either wait a year to reapply or complete an approved Ride Safe Indiana safety course.

Example

A driver holding a valid Indiana driver’s license passes the motorcycle knowledge exam and receives a one-year motorcycle learner’s permit. She may practice with a helmet on, alone, from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset.

Common mistake

Thinking the motorcycle learner’s permit itself lets you carry a passenger. The manual only allows riding without a passenger during that narrow daylight window — it never authorizes carrying a passenger on the permit.

What the manual says

Hold a valid Indiana driver’s license

Pass a knowledge exam based on the Motorcycle Operator’s Manual

A motorcycle learner’s permit is valid for one year from the date of issuance.